How to Sell Silver Eagle Coins

By Contributor

Silver Eagle coins, with their distinctive "Walking Liberty" design, were first minted in 1986. Although the coins can be used as legal tender, you're better off selling them for the value of their silver — the purity of which is guaranteed by the U.S. government. Most coin and precious metal shops will buy Silver Eagles. Along with the price of silver, the age of the coin and its condition will determine its value.

Research the current price of silver. Silver Eagle coins contain one troy ounce of .999 silver. Never sell a silver eagle coin for less than the price of an ounce of silver. It doesn't matter what shape the coin is in, it is still worth money because of the silver content.

Call your local coin shop. Coin shops buy most of their coins from individual sellers like you. Call them and ask how much they would pay for your coin. Write the number down to compare it to other offers.

Search online auction sites for the Silver Eagle that you have and note how much it usually sells for at auction. Compare this number to the coin shop offer.

Sell your coins to the highest bidder. If you prefer to sell to a local shop, you can use the auction site prices as leverage against the coin dealer. Tell him that you conducted a little research and found that the average selling price is more than what he is offering you. The dealer will usually raise his offer to offset the difference.